COVID-19 is far from over and we are reminded daily by the media, CDC, CMS, politicians and our state surveyors that our population of residents living in long-term care facilities, skilled nursing and rehabilitation settings, and assisted living residences are at highest risk of morbidity and mortality related to COVID-19 infection. Despite the odds, residents in nursing homes and assisted living residences are recovering from COVID-19 infections.
Most are weak, forgetful, confused, deconditioned, and maybe not even able to get out of bed causing a layering effect of even more complications. Some of our COVID-19 surveyors will experience significant lung fibrosis – scaring of the lungs and reduced lung function and because of the likelihood of preexisting illness that complicates things more, are prone to developing pneumonia and wounds after their COVID-19 recovery in spite of everything we do to prevent that.
Our attention to COVID-19 survivors’ recovery and rehabilitation will need focus and consider the following as you design individual COVID-19 person-centered recovery plans of care:
Pain management
- Headaches
- Neck pain
- Rib pain
- Back pain
- Pelvic pain
Cardiopulmonary
- Breathing difficulty
- Altered oxygen levels
- Aerobic capacity
Deconditioning
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Diminished function
- Mobility
Neurological
- Balance
- Walking
- Coordination
- Cognitive decline/confusion
Recommendations:
- Develop an interdisciplinary approach to COVID-19 recovery.
- Implement a strong pain management plan with non-pharmacological approaches included.
- Address risks of complications including pneumonia, risk for wound development and nutritional risks.
- Assessment of the new resident baseline is important and well documented.
- Identify creative ways to maximize resources for recovery residents. Its difficult with such a high number of sick residents and employees. There are limited number of staff and therapist.
- Share your positive stories and celebrations with staff, families, social media and IHCA/INCAL.
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